Patents Issued in June 2, 2020
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Patent number: 10668970Abstract: A saddle riding vehicle includes: a fuel tank supported by a body frame; a filler opening provided in an upper surface of the fuel tank; a tank cover covering the upper surface of the fuel tank; and a fuel sump collecting fuel overflowing from the filler opening. The saddle riding vehicle includes a shroud covering a side surface of the fuel tank. The fuel sump is placed around the filler opening and under the tank cover. The fuel sump includes a drain pipe discharging fuel downward. The drain pipe extends between the tank cover and the shroud.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: HONDA MOTOR COMPANYInventor: Satoshi Matsushima
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Patent number: 10668971Abstract: The bicycle safety device preferably measures both the traverse proximity to the bike frame and speed of an overtaking vehicle and calculates a driving safety assessment based on a predetermined safety threshold. This assessment, along with the video evidence, is uploaded to a remote server. The device may have a very distinctive light display/effect (which may double as a rear bike light) so that drivers will recognize the device and respond by only overtaking when they are able to do so safely.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Timothy Denholm
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Patent number: 10668972Abstract: A saddle riding type vehicle includes left and right front wheels that unlock a linkage more surely when the vehicle starts. The vehicle includes a linkage that connects the left and right front wheels to a vehicle body frame, a lock that locks or unlocks the linkage, a lock controller that controls the lock, a wheel speed sensor that detects a vehicle speed, and a vehicle speed change rate obtainer that obtains a vehicle speed change rate. The lock controller unlocks the linkage via the lock if the linkage is locked by the lock and at least one of the vehicle speed and the vehicle speed change rate satisfies an unlocking condition.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2015Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Nobuo Hara, Yu Shibuya
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Patent number: 10668974Abstract: A throttle tube including a radial bearing on a cable side of the throttle tube. On the cable side of the throttle tube, a bearing is used to support the throttle tube on the handle bar to avoid the undesirable friction feeling that would otherwise resulting due to the rubbing of the throttle tube against the supporting handle bar. The bearing on the cable side is located inline with the cable cam housing and the cable itself.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Thomas Erdmann
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Patent number: 10668975Abstract: A shock device for an at least partially muscle-powered two-wheeled vehicle including a damping system having a damper cylinder and a moving piston disposed therein and connected with a piston rod extending from the damper cylinder, wherein the piston acts on a first damping chamber in the damper cylinder in the compression stage as the piston rod plunges in from a retracted base position into a plunged-in position. In the damping system, as the piston rod plunges in, damping fluid is transferred from the first damping chamber to an auxiliary chamber. A flow resistance for transferring the damping fluid into the auxiliary chamber is configured travel-dependent, depending on the piston position. The flow resistance for transferring the damping fluid into the auxiliary chamber over a first travel distance of the piston including the base position is smaller than over a second travel distance that is plunged in further.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: DT SWISS INC.Inventors: Martin Walthert, Karsten Richter, Samuel Zbinden
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Patent number: 10668976Abstract: An operation apparatus includes a supporting element, an operation element including an arm whose basal end is rotatably supported by the supporting element and whose tip is provided with an acting element, and a return spring provided between the supporting element and the operation element, in which the return spring is housed in a compact manner without inviting an increase in the number of components. A return spring is provided between a first spring holder and a second spring holder. A supporting element is provided with a first side wall opposing the return spring in the lateral direction. An arm is provided with a second side wall opposing the first side wall and surrounding the return spring in conjunction with the first spring holder, the second spring holder, and the first side wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Daiki Hamaguchi
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Patent number: 10668977Abstract: A bike pedal assembly uses a pawl, a gear and a torque spring to enable a rider to store and release torque energy while pedaling a bike. The pawl and gear are connected to a nut on an axle, which is connected to a crank arm of the bike. Being connected to the gear and a foot pedal, the torque spring stores torsional energy when one end is stationary and the other rotates with the foot pedal during half of the crank arm resolution, while releases torsional energy during the second half to the crank arm. Thus, the pedal assembly, which can be efficiently installed on each of the foot pedals of the bike, allows the rider to store and utilize additional torque energy and provides a more efficient means of storing torque energy than the conventional system.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: John Daniel Corder
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Patent number: 10668978Abstract: Embodiments relate to a pedal system having a pedal coupled to a main drive shaft having a locked mode where the pedal does not rotate relative to the main drive shaft and a released mode where the pedal can rotate relative to the main drive shaft. In the locked mode, rotation of the pedal relative to the main drive shaft is prevented by a plunger that engages the main drive shaft. In the released mode, rotation of the pedal relative to the main drive shaft is enabled by having the plunger disengage from the main drive shaft. The pedal system is switchable between the locked and released modes. When a user's foot or footwear is engaging the pedal, the pedal is placed in the released mode, and when the user's foot or footwear is disengaged from the pedal, the pedal is placed in the locked mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Vectus SportInventors: Gregory William Davis, Robert Edward Glaspie
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Patent number: 10668979Abstract: An air intake structure for a saddled vehicle including a downsized air cleaner box and a sufficient intake path is provided. An air intake structure for a saddled vehicle applied to a saddled vehicle including an engine suspended from a vehicle body frame and an air cleaner box disposed behind the engine includes: a side cover mounted on a sidewall on an outer side in the vehicle width direction of the air cleaner box; and a side cover opening formed at the side cover toward the vehicle rear side. Outside air to be taken into the air cleaner box is taken from the side cover opening. The sidewall is provided with an intake opening, and the intake opening is covered with the side cover. The side cover includes a body that covers the sidewall, and a canopy member provided at the surface of the body. The side cover opening is formed of the outer edge of the canopy member.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiromasa Okada, Daiki Hamaguchi
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Patent number: 10668980Abstract: A bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprises a first sprocket, a second sprocket, and a sprocket support. The first sprocket includes a first sprocket body and a plurality of first sprocket teeth. The first sprocket body has at least one first recess. The second sprocket includes a second sprocket body and a plurality of second sprocket teeth. The sprocket support is configured to engage with a bicycle hub assembly. The sprocket support includes a sprocket attachment part. The first sprocket and the second sprocket are attached to the sprocket attachment part. The sprocket attachment part is at least partly provided in the at least one first recess to transmit a rotational force between the first sprocket and the sprocket support.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Hiroshi Fujita, Atsuhiro Emura
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Patent number: 10668981Abstract: The device for the motion transmission onto cycles comprises: a connecting core able to be associated with a frame of a cycle in a rotatable way around an axis of rotation; and a ring gear lying on a lying plane surrounding the core and able to be coupled to a flexible transmission element closed on itself in a loop for starting said cycle along a direction of forward movement; oscillation means placed between the connecting core and the ring gear and able to tilt the lying plane with respect to the axis of rotation.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Antonello Briosi
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Patent number: 10668982Abstract: A method for controlling a motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B) includes the step of feedback controlling the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor. A controller of an electric motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift is configured to carry out a feedback control of the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B).Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventor: Federico Miglioranza
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Patent number: 10668983Abstract: A bicycle derailleur for operating a chain guide. The derailleur has primary actuator that imparts a primary displacement on the chain guide that has at least a component in an axial direction with respect to an assembly of toothed wheels. The derailleur also has secondary actuator that imparts a secondary displacement on the chain guide that has at least a component in a radial direction with respect to the assembly of toothed wheels. The secondary actuator can operate independently of the primary actuator.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventors: Alberto Bortoli, Gianluca Bortolozzo, Paolo Pasqua
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Patent number: 10668984Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides an electromechanical rear derailleur for a bicycle including a base member that is configured to be coupled to a frame member of a bicycle. The derailleur includes a movable member and a link mechanism that movably couples the movable member to the base member. A motor is positioned at the movable member to move the movable member.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SRAM, LLCInventors: Christopher Shipman, Brian Jordan
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Patent number: 10668985Abstract: A bicycle wireless electronic derailleur, comprising a support body, a movable body, comprising a chain guide, actuation means configured to move the movable body with respect to the support body, comprising an electric motor, a controller of the electric motor, a wireless communication device, part of or in communication with the controller, configured to receive gearshifting request signals from a wireless transmitter and housed in a first casing, and a bicycle movement detector configured to emit a wake signal for the wireless communication device. The movement detector is at least partially housed in at least one second casing different from the first casing, and is in communication through at least one cable with the wireless communication device.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventor: Federico Miglioranza
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Patent number: 10668986Abstract: A replacement bumper for a snowmobile ski is provided and methods for using the same. The replacement bumper has an abutment surface that makes contact with a spindle of a snowmobile in order to increase the contact surface area of a rear portion of a snowmobile ski and the ground and/or increase the weight being distributed on the rear portion of the snowmobile ski, which prevents the darting or tracking of the snowmobile ski. Also, includes is a method for removing an OEM bumper from a snowmobile ski assembly and installing a replacement bumper into said snowmobile ski assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: 2726971 Ontario Inc.Inventor: Scott Bergstrom
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Patent number: 10668987Abstract: A Method and Apparatus for Motorized Sit Down Hydrofoil have been disclosed. By using a seat with a seatbelt and bindings to secure a rider to a top of a board having a hydrofoil assembly on the bottom of the board a rider can be protected from drowning due to an overturned board.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Michael Murphy
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Patent number: 10668988Abstract: The invention relates to floating platform mooring and involves an improved platform mounted tendon tension monitoring system with porch-mounted variable reluctance measurement technology sensors configured. The variable reluctance measurement technology sensors of this system are optimized for porch mounting. The porch-mounted tendon tension monitoring system can also be configured such that the porch-mounted optimized variable reluctance measurement technology sensors are replaceable. Sensors may be replaced to extend the desired useful lifetime of a tendon tension monitoring system or in the event that a sensor happens to malfunction. A plurality of variable reluctance measurement technology sensors can be configured in sensor packs at the corners or at other locations where tendon tension monitoring can be useful for a floating platform.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2019Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Oil States Industries, Inc.Inventors: John Ray Baileys, Michael Eugene Hogan, Joseph Michael O'Neil, Daniel Joseph Tye
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Patent number: 10668989Abstract: A method is for performing an approach to position a ship in side-by-side configuration alongside a floating offshore storage facility, for transfer of fluid cargo between the floating offshore storage facility and the ship. The method may comprise connecting a helper vessel to the ship, moving the ship on an approach path toward the floating offshore storage facility using the helper vessel, and obtaining a component of sideways movement of the ship by applying thrust from the connected helper vessel, to facilitate moving the ship on the approach path and position the ship in the side-by-side configuration. The ship can be brought into the side-by-side configuration alongside the floating offshore storage facility, at least one transfer pipe can be connected between the ship and the floating offshore storage facility, and communication can be opened through the transfer pipe to communicate fluid cargo between the ship and the storage facility.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: HiLoad LNG ASInventor: Svein Børge Hellesmark
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Patent number: 10668990Abstract: A computing apparatus that is integrated within a flotation module, the system obtaining the energy required to power its computing operations from waves that travel across the surface of a body of water on which the flotation module sets. Additionally, the self-powered computing apparatus employs novel designs to utilize its close proximity to the body of water and/or to strong ocean winds to significantly lower the cost and complexity of cooling their computing circuits.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Lone Gull Holdings, Ltd.Inventors: Garth Alexander Sheldon-Coulson, Brian Lee Moffat
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Patent number: 10668991Abstract: A mat storage system including a shaft that is configured to be coupled to a mat. The shaft is configured to rotate to wrap the mat around the shaft. The mat is preferably inflatable, and a motor is preferably coupled to the shaft for rotating the shaft. The mat storage system is preferably used with a watercraft, and the shaft is preferably coupled to a portion of the watercraft. The shaft is preferably positioned in a mat compartment, and the mat compartment is preferably positioned adjacent a stern of the watercraft. The mat compartment is preferably defined by a deck of the watercraft and positioned beneath at least a portion of a floor of the deck. The mat compartment is preferably sized for receiving an inflatable mat that is deflated and wrapped around the shaft. A method for using the mat storage system is also described herein.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: COBALT BOATS, LLCInventors: Brett L. Champlin, Michael J. Turner, Timothy W. Kaiser
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Patent number: 10668992Abstract: A device for providing user-support on a stand-up paddle board (SUP) includes a support post having a user-support pad mounted to its upper end portion and a horizontal rotation axle around which the support post is rotatable to a position for use, and to a stored position. The device is configured to be mounted to the SUP with the horizontal rotation axle positioned transversely to a length of the SUP. The device includes a spring component returnably connected to the support post via the horizontal rotation axle, configured to impose a return force on the support post in the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Domenico Mellina
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Patent number: 10668993Abstract: A stand-up paddleboard (SUP) may be configured with a non-retentive binding system to secure a user's foot positioning. In one example, the binding system may include pockets formed from panels extending continuously along edges of the paddleboard, and straps to provide tension on the pockets, to reduce a likelihood of undesired sliding of the user's feet. The pockets of the binding system may allow the user to reposition the user's feet to multiple secured footholds within the binding system, thereby allowing the user's stance and balance to be maintained.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Ryan Alexander Saevitz
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Patent number: 10668994Abstract: A mast for a rig for a surfboard is characterized among others by the following features: a mast with a profiled cross-section in the longitudinal direction, said cross-section being formed transversely to the mast longitudinal direction and deviating from a circular shape; the profiled cross-section has the shape of a droplet or has a droplet-like design in the manner of a droplet profile; the mast has a fork tree head securing section which can be rotated or pivoted about the fork tree head securing section; the fork tree head securing section is provided with a cross-section which deviates from the droplet profile; and the mast lower part and the mast upper part of the mast consist of plastic or comprise plastic optionally with the addition of a reinforcement consisting of metal, glass fibers, and/or carbon fibers.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: ROBERT FRANK GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Robert Frank
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Patent number: 10668995Abstract: A method of anti-fouling of a surface while said surface is at least partially submersed in an liquid environment, comprising: providing an anti-fouling light; distributing at least part of the light through an optical mediumcomprising a silicone material and/or UV grade fused silica; emitting the anti-fouling light from the optical medium and from the surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Bart Andre Salters, Roelant Boudewijn Hietbrink, Ivo Wilhelmus Johannes Marie Rutten, Hendrik Van Houten
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Patent number: 10668996Abstract: A structural block is fabricated with necessary components and structure for LNG storage and/or process. The structural block may be an LNG tank with the same configuration as that in an LNG carrier. The structural block may also be a regasification plant or a liquefaction plant to be used for LNG process. An existing vessel, e.g. an LNG carrier, is cut apart to form a forward section and an aft section. The forward section and the aft section are moved away from each other to form a space therebetween. The structural block is then placed into the space and jointed to the forward and aft sections, by welding for example, to form an integrated new vessel. The structural block provides the new vessel with increased LNG storage and transportation capabilities as well as regasification and/or liquefaction process facilities to meet the increased demand for LNG storage, transportation and processing.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre Pte LtdInventors: Asok Kumar Nedumaran, Wen Sin Chong, Kok Seng Foo
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Patent number: 10668997Abstract: A search and rescue drone system includes a buoyant body member, a frame attached to the buoyant body member for carrying a motor and propeller, and an electronic array including a camera, GPS, an EPIRB radio distress beacon, and a transmitter/receiver for remote control flying the drone and communicating with an operator. The search and rescue drone may be flown manually, or may have some autonomous flight and locator capabilities. For example, in one embodiment, the search and rescue drone may be programmed to simply fly to the location of an electronic wearable device, like a bracelet, that is worn by a man overboard. In another embodiment, the search and rescue drone includes a basket, harness, or other means for actually recovering a swimmer in distress, and flying that person back to safety on a ship or on shore.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventors: Thomas Lawrence Moses, Merrill Stuart Ross
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Patent number: 10668998Abstract: A life vest pouch is closed by overlapping panels. A male panel is attached to an upper face portion and includes three inserted flaps and a female panel is attached to a lower face portion and includes four cuts. Two center cuts are vertical and receive opposite ends of a center flap and two outer cuts receive outer flaps. The opposite ends of the center flap are generally triangular and overlap the outer flaps. The panels are made from polycarbonate or the like. The pouch is opened by pulling a strap attached to the lower face portion. A tamper proof seal is attached to both upper and lower face portions and is torn if the pouch is opened.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Courtney Tassie
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Patent number: 10668999Abstract: The mask for surface snorkeling comprises a rigid frame (2), a transparent visor (3), a soft face mask (4) applicable in an airtight way to the face of the user and having a membrane (7) which delimits an upper viewing chamber (8) being shaped to contain the eyes of the user and a lower breathing chamber (9) being shaped to contain the nose and mouth of the user, and a breathing circuit (5) connected to the lower chamber (9), a ventilation circuit of the upper chamber (8) independent and separated from the breathing circuit (5) also being provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Cressi-Sub S.p.A.Inventor: Carlos Alberto Godoy
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Patent number: 10669000Abstract: A docking system has flat funnel and a slotted ramp at the end of the flat funnel. The ramp has a plurality of inclined planes, each on a respective side of the slot. A docking adapter, fitted over an underwater vehicle, includes a guide plane and a mask. The funnel guides the guide plane to the top of the ramp during docking/charging of the underwater vehicle. Another aspect of the invention is a highly maneuverable glider including a forwardly mounted buoyancy module followed, in order, by a pitch module, a processing module, and a roll module, mounted concentrically with respect to each other. The glider may be attached to any docking system. When used in conjunction with the docking system of the present invention, the glider may be attached to either the flat funnel or the docking adapter of the docking system of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: The Governement of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Nina Mahmoudian, Brian Page
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Patent number: 10669001Abstract: A hybrid electrical and mechanical ship propulsion and electric power system, includes a first mechanical power plant configured to drive a first propeller via a first shaft. There is a second electrical power plant configured to drive a second propeller via a second shaft. The second electrical power plant includes HTS generators and a high temperature superconductor (HTS) motor interconnected to the second shaft. There is a first electrical network to which the HTS motor is connected in order to energize the HTS motor to drive the second propeller via the second shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventors: John M. Ulliman, Douglas C. Folts, Bruce Gamble, Stephen I. Callis
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Patent number: 10669002Abstract: A sea water cooling system including a first fluid cooling loop coupled to a first side of a heat exchanger and to a thermal load, a second fluid cooling loop coupled to a second side of the heat exchanger and including a pump for circulating fluid through the second fluid cooling loop, and a controller operatively connected to the pump, wherein the controller is configured to monitor an actual temperature in the first fluid cooling loop and to adjust a speed of the pump based on the monitored temperature to achieve a predetermined temperature in the first fluid cooling loop. The system may be selectively operable in one of a plurality of operating modes, wherein in a first operating mode the pump operates based entirely on cooling demands of the thermal load, and in a second operating mode the pump operates to maintain a fluid pressure above a predefined pressure.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Circor Pumps North America, LLCInventors: Dan Yin, Stefan Werner, Christian Martin, Martin Hoffmann, David McKinstry
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Patent number: 10669003Abstract: A ship having improved power efficiency is provided. The ship comprises: a power grid; a power cost generator which determines the cost of power; a generator which is connected to the power grid and analyzes the cost of power so as to autonomously determine whether to produce power; an energy storage device which is connected to the power grid and analyzes the cost of power so as to autonomously determine whether to store power; and a load which is connected to the power grid and analyzes the cost of power so as to autonomously determine whether to use power.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SAMSUNG HEAVY INDUSTRIES CO., LTDInventor: Yun Tae Kang
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Patent number: 10669004Abstract: A vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft includes an airframe having a transverse axis and a longitudinal axis that is substantially perpendicular relative to the transverse axis. A transmission and rotor support platform is arranged in the airframe. A transmission is supported by the transmission and rotor support platform. An energy attenuation system mechanically links the transmission and rotor support platform with the airframe. The energy attenuation system includes a first plurality of collapsible support members selectively facilitating rotation of the transmission and rotor support platform about the transverse axis and a second plurality of collapsible support members, the first and second pluralities of support members selectively facilitating translation of the transmission and rotor support platform along an axis that is substantially parallel to the rotor axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONInventor: Alan R. Goodworth
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Patent number: 10669005Abstract: A solid laminate stringer includes a base segment that forms a first generally trapezoidal cross section. The solid laminate stringer also includes a transition segment abutting the base segment, with concave sides that are continuous with the sides of the base segment. The solid laminate stringer also includes a top segment abutting the transition segment, where the top segment forms a second generally trapezoidal cross section with sides that are continuous with the concave sides of the transition segment. The solid laminate stringer also includes a first overwrap layer covering the top segment, the transition segment, and at least a portion of the base segment. The solid laminate stringer also includes a second overwrap layer overlapping at least a portion of the first overwrap layer covering the base segment.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Jiangtian Cheng, Ian E. Schroeder, Gary D. Swanson, Kanna M. Pham, Samuel E. Cregger, Scott M. Spencer
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Patent number: 10669006Abstract: An aircraft (102) including a wing (101), having a fixed wing (105) with a wing tip device (103) moveably mounted at the outer end thereof. The wing tip device (103) is moveable between: a flight configuration; and a ground configuration. The wing tip device (103) and the fixed wing (105) are separated along an oblique primary cut plane (113). The wing tip device (103) and the fixed wing (105) meet along an interfacing cut line (135). The interfacing cut line (135) comprises a first length (137) offset from the primary cut plane (113) in a first direction; a second length (141) offset from the primary cut plane (113) in a second direction, opposite to the first direction; and a transition section (139) over which the interfacing cut line (135) transitions from the first length to the second length.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Benjamin Bishop
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Patent number: 10669007Abstract: An example method of mounting a first component to a second component includes receiving at least a fastening assembly within an aperture established in the first component, the fastening assembly coupled to the second component via a linking member, positioning a felt metal material between the fastening assembly and the first component, securing the fastening assembly, and compressing the felt metal material during the securing.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Wendell V. Twelves, Kathleen E. Sinnamon
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Patent number: 10669008Abstract: A propeller drive assembly includes an electric motor having a stator and a rotor. During operation the motor generates heat. A propeller made from a thermally conductive plastic includes a hub that is secured to the rotor portion of the motor so that the heat generated within the motor is transferred by conductance through the thermally conductive hub and propeller and then, by convection, is absorbed by the surrounding air, as the propeller rotates through the air. A thermally conductive interface material can be positioned between the rotor portion of the motor and the hub of the propeller to increase the thermal efficiency of the heat transfer between the motor and the propeller. A thermally conductive grease can be used as the interface material and an O-ring seal can be provided about the rotor to prevent the grease from escaping during motor operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: VANTAGE ROBOTICS, LLCInventors: Tobin Fisher, Johannes Becker Van Niekerk
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Patent number: 10669009Abstract: A propulsion system comprises a propeller and a driving device coupled with the propeller. The propeller comprises a hub having a receiving hole, a plurality of blades connected to the hub, and a connecting surface. The driving device comprises a body portion, an elastic abutting member disposed on the body portion and configured to abut against the connecting surface, and a lock portion disposed on the body portion and including a first snap-fitting portion. A second snap-fitting portion is arranged on an inner wall of the receiving hole and is configured to snap with the first snap-fitting portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Ye Tao, Tao Deng
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Patent number: 10669010Abstract: The invention relates to an unducted-fan aircraft engine comprising a generally cylindrical nacelle through which a primary jet flows, the nacelle bearing a fan rotor comprising variable-pitch vanes (33) located radially outside the nacelle in order to be traversed by a secondary jet (31) flowing longitudinally around the nacelle. The rotor comprises a hub bearing variable-pitch vane supports each carrying one vane (33), each vane (33) comprising a blade extending from a root that is used to removably attach same to a base of the associated support (34). Each base (36) is located radially outside the nacelle so that it is in the secondary jet, and each assembly formed by a base (36) and the vane root supported by the base (36) is surrounded and covered by a detachable aerodynamic cover (37).Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINESInventors: Sébastien Emile Philippe Tajan, Adrien Jacques Philippe Fabre, Adrien Louis Nicolas Laurenceau, Jonathan Evert Vlastuin, Laurence Francine Vion
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Patent number: 10669011Abstract: The invention relates to a rotating front part of an aircraft turbomachine intake comprising bolts for attaching a cone tip to an internal support, each bolt comprising a rear end that is screwed into the support and a front end that receives a clamping nut, a rotation-prevention portion of non-circular cross section of each bolt engaging with a hole of corresponding cross section of a rotation-prevention ring. Also provided are extraction bolts, of which a rear end is screwed into the filling piece, each bolt passing through a cone tip flange. Finally, the invention is configured such that, after removal of the nuts, forward tension on the bolts allows the removal of an assembly comprising the tip and the filling piece, while keeping the bolts screwed to the support.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINESInventors: Sylvie Judith Devaux, Pierre Yves Heinry, Olivier Richard Lefebvre
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Patent number: 10669012Abstract: An aircraft control of the rudder bar type, which includes a box-shaped pedal, a support, a first rotation shaft connecting the pedal to the support with a first rotation axis, a first pivot connection configured to allow the pedal to pivot about the first rotation axis relative to the support, a rod, a second rotation shaft, distinct from the first rotation shaft and connecting the pedal to the rod with a second rotation axis, and a second pivot connection configured so as to allow the pedal and/or the rod to pivot about the second rotation axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Airbus Operations (S.A.S.)Inventors: Bernard Guering, Matthieu De Kergommeaux
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Patent number: 10669013Abstract: A gimbal having a split design, which can be used in an assembly for actuating an aerodynamic high lift device, is described. The gimbal enables a rotating load path when a force is transferred from the actuator to the high lift device via the gimbal. In particular, the split design can include two receivers which can be coupled to posts extending from a nut. The nut can be secured to a shaft which receives a force generated by the actuator. In one embodiment, the actuator can rotate the shaft to cause the gimbal to translate along the shaft. The split design provides a more compact form factor and is lighter in weight than traditional gimbal designs.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Kevin Tsai, Bret Alan Bowers
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Patent number: 10669014Abstract: An actuation mechanism, a flap mechanism, and an aircraft. The actuation mechanism includes drive links and drive mechanisms connected to opposite ends of the flap that move the flap to various positions. The drive mechanisms are actuated by torque tubes connected to a drive motor via a differential. The differential distributes torque to the torque tubes. In the event of abnormal operation of one of the drive links or drive mechanisms, the differential limits torque to the remaining drive link and drive mechanism such that the flap does not deploy or retract in a skewed manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Michael Chih-Huan Wang, Nathan A. Secinaro
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Patent number: 10669015Abstract: A method, vehicle, and system for calculating the location of a center of mass of the vehicle and transferring fuel to move the location of the center of mass are provided. The location of the center of mass of the vehicle is determined by measuring or calculating forces acting on the vehicle that counteract the gravitational forces on the vehicle. The location of the center of mass is calculated by determining on a moment arm of the gravitational force that counteracts the moment arms of the other forces acting on the vehicle. Fuel can be transferred among differently-located fuel tanks in the vehicle to move the location of the center of mass to a position in which at least some of the other forces acting on the vehicle are reduced, which may increase the speed and/or efficiency of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Nils Kneuper, Ralf Rene Shu-Zhong Cabos
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Patent number: 10669016Abstract: A tail skid shock absorber including an outer shock absorber canister, a crushable indicator cartridge disposed within the outer shock absorber canister, and an indicator rod coupled to the crushable indicator cartridge so as to move with a portion of the crushable indicator cartridge as a unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: James E. Cusworth, Michael P. Huested, Justin D. Cottet
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Patent number: 10669017Abstract: A strut assembly for an aircraft landing gear structure is transitioned between an extended configuration, corresponding to the aircraft being off the ground, and a retracted configuration, in which the strut assembly is shortened along its longitudinal axis with respect to the extended configuration, for stowage during flight. The strut assembly includes an upper bulkhead supported by an upper tubular housing, and a lower tubular housing configured to be longitudinally translated with respect to the upper tubular housing. To transition the strut assembly to the retracted configuration, translation of the upper bulkhead with respect to the upper tubular housing mechanically causes translation of the lower tubular housing to a retracted position, such that the overall length of the strut assembly is reduced. The strut assembly may be an oleo strut assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Mark Nicholas Simpson, Mitchell Loren Ray Mellor, James E. Cusworth, Justin Cottet
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Patent number: 10669018Abstract: A multicopter with boom mounted rotors is disclosed. In various embodiments, a multicopter includes multiple rotors, each mounted substantially horizontally on a distal end of a boom. The multicopter further includes a plurality of boom extensions, each boom extension being associated with a corresponding boom and each boom extension being configured to extend an associated distal end of said corresponding boom by an amount determined based at least in part on a swept area associated with a rotor mounted at or near said associated distal end. The multicopter includes a material, such as netting, secured to the aircraft and of a size sufficient to reach a far end of one or more of said boom extensions.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Kitty Hawk CorporationInventors: Aldo Daniele Longhi, Todd Reichert, Cameron Robertson, Joseph Roop, Christopher Scott Saunders, Zachais Vawter
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Patent number: 10669019Abstract: A manned or unmanned aircraft has a main body with a circular shape and a circular outer periphery. One or more rotor blades extend substantially horizontally outward from the main body at or about the circular outer periphery. In addition, one or more counter-rotation blades extend substantially horizontally outward from said main body at or about the circular outer periphery, but vertically offset from the main rotor blades. The rotor blades and counter-rotation blades can be folded upward into a storage position. In addition, the unmanned aircraft can have solar panels positioned about the top housing and fuselage of the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Kaiser Enterprises, LLCInventor: James Kaiser
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Patent number: 10669020Abstract: A rotorcraft with counter-rotating rotor blades can hover in place, translate forwards, backwards, or side-to-side irrespective of the airspeed over the rotorcraft. The rotorcraft includes a fuselage, a first axial-flow rotor, a radial-flow rotor, a propulsion funnel, and a plurality of lift funnels. The fuselage is used to house passengers, cargo, flight electronics, and or fuel. The first axial-flow rotor rotates independent of the radial-flow rotor and generates forward thrust for propelling the rotorcraft. The radial-flow rotor in the opposite direction of the first axial-flow rotor and generates upward thrust for lifting the rotorcraft. The airflow generated by the first axial-flow rotor travels through the propulsion funnel and exits out of the back of the rotorcraft. The airflow generated by the radial-flow rotor travels through the plurality of lift funnels which gradually directs the airflow downwards.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2018Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Inventor: Anh Vuong